Income Tax Return Filing: What to Do If You Miss the 30-Day E-Verification Deadline
If you’ve filed your Income Tax Return (ITR) for Assessment Year 2025–26 but haven’t e-verified it within 30 days, your return could be treated as invalid. Here’s everything you need to know to fix the issue and avoid penalties.
Extended ITR Filing Deadline: September 15, 2025
The original deadline to file ITR for most taxpayers was July 31, 2025, but the Income Tax Department has now extended it to September 15, 2025. However, e-verification must still be completed within 30 days of filing, not from the extended deadline.
Why E-Verification Is Mandatory
Your ITR is not officially submitted unless it is verified. E-verification authenticates the return. Without this step:
Your return is not processed
Refunds are withheld
Your ITR may be considered invalid
E-Verification Deadline: What You Must Know
If You E-Verify Within 30 Days:
The original date of filing is retained
No penalties apply
Your return is considered valid and timely
If You E-Verify After 30 Days:
The date of verification becomes your new filing date
Your return is considered late
You may face a penalty under Section 234F (up to ₹5,000)
You can’t carry forward losses
You may need to file a condonation request to regularize the return
Penalties for Missing the E-Verification Window
| Penalty Type | Section | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Late Filing | 234F | Up to ₹5,000 |
| Invalid Return | N/A | Return is nullified |
| No Refund | N/A | Until verification is done |
Tip: Use the income tax e-filing portal to check if your return is verified.
How to E-Verify Your ITR Online (2025)
You can complete e-verification using any of the following methods:
Aadhaar OTP (linked to your PAN)
EVC via Bank Account (pre-validated)
EVC via Demat Account
Net Banking
ATM (Offline EVC generation)
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
Offline Verification (ITR-V Submission)
If you choose offline verification, mail your signed ITR-V to:
Centralised Processing Centre
Income Tax Department
Bengaluru – 560500, Karnataka
Must be sent via ordinary or speed post only.
Condonation of Delay: What If You Miss 30 Days?
If you’re past the 30-day mark, you can apply for condonation of delay with a valid reason. Steps:
Log in to www.incometax.gov.in
Go to “Services > Request for Condonation”
Submit your reason for delay
Wait for approval from the Income Tax Department
Only after approval will your ITR be treated as valid.
Faster Processing & Refunds in AY 2025–26
Average processing time has dropped to 17 days
Refunds may take longer if returns are flagged for manual review
You can check refund status on the income tax refund tracker
Why Timely E-Verification is Crucial
Ensures timely refunds
Avoids penalties
Helps with loan/visa approvals
Maintains compliance record
Allows loss carry-forward benefits
Quick Checklist
| Task | Deadline |
|---|---|
| File ITR | By Sept 15, 2025 |
| E-Verify ITR | Within 30 days of filing |
| Apply for Condonation | If past 30 days |
Related Topics You May Find Useful:
How to Link Aadhaar with PAN in 2025
Steps to File Income Tax Return Online
Top Deductions You Can Claim in AY 2025–26
How to Check Income Tax Refund Status
Conclusion
Don’t let a simple oversight turn into a costly mistake. Always e-verify your ITR within 30 days of filing. If you miss the deadline, act fast by applying for condonation of delay to regularize your return and avoid penalties.